Ferdinand “Ferdy” Henry Niehues, 96, of Goff died on Wednesday, July 6, 2016, in the home in which he was born; just days before his 97th birthday.

Ferdy was born on July 14, 1919, on a farm southeast of Kelly, to Frank and Elizabeth Steinlage Niehues. He grew up there, and attended St. Bede’s School in Kelly. After the death of his parents; he remained on the farm with his two sisters, Bernadine and Rita. On the family farm the siblings milked cows, raised row crops and bailed countless tons of hay. He loved living on the farm and enjoyed the hard work it provided. He believed in taking care of the land, and in return it would take care of him. Ferdi was not a man with idle hands; he was a man who until the day of his death, was out checking his cattle.

He relished the simple gratifications of country living and the fruits of hard work it provided. Ferdy was a genuinely nice man, a dependable friend and neighbor; one who generously gave of his time, labor and friendship. Ferdy was a lifelong member of St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly. He was a Charter Member of St. Bede’s Knights of Columbus Council. He was a past member of Harrison Township Board and St Bede’s Church Council. Ferdy thought a great deal of his family, his siblings, nieces and nephews, and always enjoyed their visits. His competitive nature was always present in a good card game.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Herbert on June 26, 2000; a two-year-old sister, Anita, on August 27, 1934; and the two sisters, who also lived on the family farm their entire lives, Bernadine on February 18, 2007 and Rita on June 16, 2007; and sister, Florence Hermesch on August 22, 2011.

He is survived by two sisters, Norbertine Miller and Frances Rottinghaus both of Seneca; and 27 nieces and nephews.

The Rosary will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM on Friday, July 8, 2016, at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:30 AM Saturday, July 9th at St. Bede’s Church in Kelly. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Memorials may given in Ferdy’s memory to St. Bede’s Church, and sent in care of the family.